Seattle's historic gem, The Rainier Club, nestled amidst the skyscrapers, isn't just about its storied past. This November, members and patrons celebrate a man who has been an integral part of its modern journey—Executive Chef Jim Campbell.

For 20 years, Chef Campbell has been the valued contributor behind the club's delightful culinary experiences, ensuring each dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a testament to the vibrant local flavors of Seattle.

In 2003, he began his journey at the Club, initially serving as the AM Sous Chef where he quickly worked his way up to Executive Sous Chef and maintained that role for 13 years. His talent, dedication, and skills lead to his promotion as Executive Chef in 2017, a position he continues to hold. 

Ranil H., a club member, aptly puts it: “Food and culinary experiences are a time-tested way for people to come together and get to know one another. The clubs’ initiative to create different culinary experiences from around the world through an event like Foodie Friday allows its members to gather, appreciate, and enjoy what other regions of the world, cultures, and cuisines have to offer."

This sentiment echoes throughout The Rainier Club's hallowed halls, epitomizing the experiences curated by Chef Campbell.

Beyond the club's walls, Chef Jim's community engagement shines brightly.

He partners with the local YMCA and their Young Adults in Transition (YAIT) program, providing food staples for their communal kitchen every month and serving plated Thanksgiving Eve and Christmas dinners for the youths and support staff. He was also a guest chef two times at FareStart, an organization that has been helping people transform their lives through food for 30 years. Jim’s commitment ensures that The Rainier Club continues to make a meaningful impact on the greater Seattle community.

Locality and community aren't just catchphrases for Chef Campbell. Since the early days of his tenure, he has maintained strong relationships with local farms and providers, ensuring that The Rainier Club's kitchen is always stocked with the freshest ingredients. This dedication to local sourcing also means that the club's menus are ever-evolving, changing either monthly or bimonthly to reflect the season's best.

Every plate tells a story of the Pacific Northwest's bounty and Chef Campbell's culinary artistry.

The Fall 2023 Newsletter proudly showcases the current seasonal menu. One of Chef Jim's most recent menus - a Silver Oak Wine Dinner, featured an exquisite menu thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines. Dishes like the Skagit County Blackberry Cobbler with cardamom biscuit topping and vanilla bean gelato or the Pan-Seared Pork Collar with a savory juniper rub exemplify Chef Campbell’s dedication to sourcing ingredients locally. 

Members of The Rainier Club have always enjoyed the privilege of collaborating with Chef Campbell on custom menus during committee events. This unique offering is a testament to the club's commitment to providing personalized experiences for its members. And for those wondering about the costs, the club prides itself on offering member-exclusive pricing, ensuring that exceptional quality doesn't always come with a hefty price tag.

However, it's not just about the food. The Rainier Club continues to evolve, with the recent addition of The Beller, a brand-new lounge that extends the Clubhouse cocktail lounge/bar. It's the perfect spot for members to relax, sip on a meticulously crafted drink, and soak in the club's rich ambiance.

And as Chef Jim Campbell's unparalleled contributions are celebrated, readers and patrons are invited to experience firsthand the culinary magic that unfolds within the walls of The Rainier Club. Chef Campbell, inspired by the region's produce, crafts every seasonal dish and creates custom menus for memorable events, using classic culinary techniques to produce menus with an RC twist.

Looking back at Chef Campbell's 20-year journey, it's evident that his passion, dedication, and sheer love for his craft have been instrumental in shaping The Rainier Club's culinary identity. But beyond the dishes and the menus, it's the genuine connections he's fostered with members, the collaborative spirit, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that stand out.

As we celebrate the remarkable service and loyalty of Executive Chef Jim Campbell, we invite you to savor the warmth, connection, and dedication he brings to every plate and every member at The Rainier Club. It's not just a club; it's a place where Seattle's heart and soul find their home away from home.  Learn more about membership at Become a Member | The Rainier Club - The Rainier Club.